The Ruger American Ranch Rifle has solidified its place as a popular choice among shooters, and the Gen 2 5.56 iteration builds upon its predecessor's success. This review delves into the features, performance, and overall value of this versatile carbine, offering an in-depth look for potential buyers.
What Makes the Ruger American Ranch Gen 2 5.56 Stand Out?
The Ruger American Ranch Gen 2 in 5.56 NATO (.223 Remington) isn't just another AR-style platform; it offers a unique blend of features that cater to a broad range of shooting disciplines. Its appeal stems from its affordability, reliability, and surprising accuracy, making it an excellent choice for home defense, plinking, and even some hunting applications (with appropriate ammunition selection).
Key Features & Improvements in the Gen 2:
- Improved ergonomics: The Gen 2 boasts a more refined stock design with improved cheek weld and overall comfort. The grip texture has also been enhanced for better control, even with sweaty hands.
- Enhanced trigger: Ruger has addressed common criticisms of previous models by incorporating a noticeably improved trigger. While not match-grade, it's a significant upgrade offering a crisper break and reduced creep.
- Reliable action: The Ruger American Ranch's patented gas system provides reliable cycling across a range of ammunition, a crucial aspect for a firearm intended for diverse uses.
- Versatile handguard: The free-floating handguard provides ample space for mounting accessories like lights, lasers, and optics, allowing for customization to suit individual preferences and shooting styles. This is particularly important for those looking to use the rifle for home defense or tactical applications.
- Lightweight and maneuverable: The rifle's relatively lightweight design contributes to ease of handling and maneuverability, making it comfortable for extended shooting sessions.
Performance and Accuracy on the Range
Field testing the Ruger American Ranch Gen 2 5.56 revealed impressive performance. Accuracy was consistently better than expected for a rifle in this price range. Groups at 100 yards were easily achievable within 2-3 inches using quality ammunition. The improved trigger significantly contributed to the enhanced accuracy. Recoil management was also impressive, manageable even for new shooters. Reliability proved exemplary; the rifle functioned flawlessly through hundreds of rounds of various ammunition types.
Areas for Potential Improvement:
While the Ruger American Ranch Gen 2 5.56 is a solid performer, there are areas where minor improvements could be implemented. Some users may find the standard sights adequate but might prefer a more robust, readily upgradeable sight system. Additionally, while the included magazine is functional, some shooters might want to explore aftermarket options for increased capacity.
Who is the Ruger American Ranch Gen 2 5.56 for?
This rifle is exceptionally versatile and caters to a wide range of shooters:
- Home Defenders: Its compact size and manageable recoil make it suitable for close-quarters situations.
- New Shooters: The rifle's user-friendly design, manageable recoil, and reasonable price make it an excellent choice for beginners.
- Plunkers: Its reliability and accuracy make it perfect for casual range shooting.
- Hunters: With the right ammunition, it's effective for smaller game hunting (always check local regulations).
Conclusion: A Solid Investment
The Ruger American Ranch Gen 2 5.56 offers an impressive combination of features, performance, and value. Its reliability, accuracy, and versatility make it a strong contender in the crowded market of modern carbines. The improvements made in the Gen 2 address many criticisms of the previous model, making it a compelling option for both experienced shooters and those new to the world of firearms. While not without room for minor improvements, the Ruger American Ranch Gen 2 5.56 is a solid investment for anyone seeking a reliable and versatile rifle.